Therefore, if we truly desire to be disciples of Christ, we must strive to cultivate deep reverence and obedience towards God, taming and subduing any affections that contradict His sovereign will. In doing so, regardless of the type of cross we bear, we will maintain unwavering patience even in the most trying circumstances. Adversity will still carry its bitterness and sting us deeply. In times of illness, we may groan and feel restless, longing for health. When poverty weighs upon us, anxiety and sadness may pierce our hearts. The pain of ignominy, contempt, and injury may wound us, and the tears of grief may flow when we lose loved ones. Yet, through it all, our conviction will remain: The Lord has ordained it, and so we shall follow His will. Even in the midst of anguish, amid our sighs and tears, this thought will naturally arise within us and inspire us to endure cheerfully for the sake of that which afflicts us.
John Calvin. On the Christian Life.
